Couples counselling
Couples counselling in Sydney
Most couples don't arrive here because something dramatic happened. They arrive because the same conversation keeps going round, and neither person feels properly heard in it.
Coming to couples counselling doesn't mean your relationship has failed. It means you're willing to look at it honestly, with someone who isn't taking sides. I'm Leif Lawson, a registered counsellor and psychotherapist (ACA and BACP) working with couples across Sydney's North Shore and online across Australia, the UK and Ireland.
When couples come to see me
Every relationship stage deserves thoughtful conversation.
The same argument, on repeat.
Different topic, same ending. We slow it down far enough to see what is actually happening underneath.
Drifting apart.
No conflict, just less of each other. Often the harder one to name out loud.
After an affair or a betrayal of trust.
Whether repair is possible, and what it would honestly involve.
Before a bigger commitment.
Moving in, marrying, children - talking properly about money, family, intimacy and expectations before they become arguments.
Deciding whether to stay.
You do not have to know the answer before you start.
Separating well.
Especially where children and a shared history remain.
What actually happens
Inside a session.
The first session is about what brought you, what each of you hopes for, and the history and strengths of the relationship. Both people get heard without it turning into another round of the argument.
The middle of the work is naming the pattern - who withdraws, who pursues, what each of you is protecting - and practising something different in the room. I draw on Gottman Method training (Levels 1 and 2) and attachment-based relationship work.
The pace is usually fortnightly. Some couples come for six sessions, some for longer. We review together rather than letting it run open-endedly.
Honesty first
What couples counselling won't do.
- -I won't decide who's right.
- -I won't tell you whether to stay or leave.
- -I won't promise a repair that only one of you wants.
Sessions, fees and how to start
A gentle first step.
Couples sessions are 60 minutes and held online, with weekday and weekend times available. Fees are listed plainly on the fees page, including a reduced-rate four-session package, and there is no obligation beyond the first session.
Across Sydney's North Shore
Couples counselling across the North Shore - and beyond.
I work online with couples in Gordon, Pymble, Killara, Roseville, Lindfield, Turramurra, St Ives, Lane Cove, Chatswood and North Sydney, as well as couples anywhere in Australia, the UK and Ireland. Online sessions mean no commute and no waiting room - many couples find it easier to talk from their own space.
You can read more about couples counselling in Lane Cove, counselling across the North Shore, Pymble, North Sydney, or online counselling across Australia.
Common questions
Before you begin.
Does couples counselling work if only one of us wants to come?
It is harder, but not pointless. If one partner is reluctant, we can start with whoever is willing - often seeing the process described plainly lowers the barrier. I am also happy to speak briefly with a hesitant partner before you commit to anything.
How many sessions will we need?
Fortnightly sessions are common. Some couples come for six sessions around a specific issue; others stay longer for deeper patterns. We review progress together rather than letting it run open-endedly.
Do you take sides?
No. My job is to understand what each of you is experiencing and protecting, not to decide who is right. Couples often find that being properly heard - without a verdict - is itself what shifts things.
Can we do couples counselling online?
Yes. All couples sessions are held online, which many couples find easier: no commute, no waiting room, and you can join from separate locations if needed. Online couples work is well supported by research.
What if we're not sure we want to stay together?
You do not need to know before you start. Counselling can help you understand the relationship more clearly, so whatever you decide comes from reflection rather than from conflict, fear or urgency.
Is this the same as marriage counselling?
Essentially, yes - the terms overlap. Marriage counselling, couples therapy and relationship counselling describe the same kind of work. You do not need to be married; I work with couples at every stage of commitment.
Do you work with couples after an affair?
Yes. Affair recovery is a significant part of couples work. We look honestly at what happened and what it would take to rebuild trust - or, where repair is not possible, at how to separate with clarity and care.
How much does couples counselling cost in Sydney?
My couples sessions are 60 minutes, with weekday and weekend rates listed on the fees page. A reduced-rate four-session package is also available. There is no obligation to commit beyond the first session.
A gentle first step
